Dubai to Launch‍ Self-Driving Taxi Trials with Uber and WeRide

​ ⁣ Updated June 15, 2025
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dubai is poised to become a⁢ testing ground for autonomous vehicles, with self-driving taxi trials set ‍to begin this year. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has⁣ formalized agreements with Uber and WeRide to pilot these next-generation mobility solutions in the emirate.

The initiative, slated ⁢to‍ launch via the Uber ⁢app, will initially include safety drivers. A full-scale commercial rollout of driverless ride-hailing services is anticipated in 2026. This partnership aims to establish Dubai‍ as a global leader in⁢ innovative transportation.

Preparations are underway, with Uber ​and ⁢WeRide collaborating under​ the RTA’s guidance to ‍ensure a smooth and‍ safe implementation of the autonomous vehicle program. the goal is to integrate these self-driving taxis seamlessly into dubai’s ‍existing ⁢transport network.

“The introduction of autonomous vehicles in Dubai represents a significant leap towards a smart and sustainable future for‌ mobility, ⁢in line with the vision of ‍our⁢ leadership ​to⁣ transform Dubai into the world’s smartest ⁤city,” saeid Mattar​ Al‌ Tayer, ⁣Director General, ⁢Chairman of the Board⁢ of Executive Directors of Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority.
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Al Tayer added that autonomous vehicles will improve quality of life, enhance road‌ safety, and ensure‍ more seamless last-mile connectivity across Dubai’s public transport network. The Dubai Smart Self-Driving transport Strategy ⁤aims for 25% of all ​mobility journeys⁢ in the emirate to be autonomous by 2030.

Frans Hiemstra, Regional General Manager, MEA ⁣at Uber, said Uber is building the future of transportation, one they ‌see as autonomous, electric, and shared. He added that ​Uber is thrilled ⁢to partner with​ RTA to expand autonomous vehicle operations in the UAE by launching in ​Dubai in‌ 2025, starting with‌ WeRide‌ as their first technology partner.

Jennifer Li, CFO and⁣ Head of International at WeRide, said that they are⁣ accelerating their international expansion, with‍ the Middle ‌East as a strategic priority. She added that they ⁢are ‌fully aligned with Dubai Government’s ambitious vision to make 25 per cent of all ‍transportation trips autonomous by 2030 and are proud to support this goal with ⁢their advanced technology⁣ and global experience.

what’s next

Following⁣ the initial trials, the focus will be on expanding the self-driving taxi service‍ and ⁤integrating it further into Dubai’s public transportation infrastructure. The RTA, Uber, and WeRide will continue to collaborate on⁤ refining the technology ‌and ensuring its safety and efficiency.